The Neurodiversity Family Centre

Welcome to Alex who has joined our team starting this week! To learn more about Alex and his availability check out his profile here:
https://www.neurodiversityfamilycentre.com/team-1/alex-swiatlowski

✨ **Exciting News!** ✨
The Neurodiversity Family Centre has officially moved to our new, neurodiversity-affirming space! 🎉 We now have **4 large offices** filled with natural light from beautiful windows, surrounded by greenery 🌿, and equipped with even more toys and art supplies for our amazing kiddos! 🎨🧸 This new space is designed to foster creativity, comfort, and community. 💫 Our new address is 318 - 1175 Cook St Victoria BC just down the road from our old location!

Stay tuned for more details on our grand opening—coming soon! 🥳

We'd love to welcome Emily Coldwell to the team!

Emily works with: Youth (12+), their caregivers, adults, and couples.

Availability:
In Person:
Fridays 12:15pm-7:15pm
Online:
Wednesdays 10:00am-4:00pm

Specializations:
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Grief and Loss
- LGBTQ2S+
- Life Transitions
- Relationships

To learn more about Emily and book with her check out her profile here:
https://www.neurodiversityfamilycentre.com/team-1/emily-coldwell

We'd love to introduce you to Courtney Sedlak!
Courtney works with: Youth (12+), their caregivers, and adults

She is available:
In Person & Virtual: Thursdays 12:15pm-6:45pm

Specializations:
Disordered Eating/Eating Disorders
Anxiety
Autism
Perinatal Mental Health
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

To learn more about Courtney and/or book with her check out her profile here:
https://www.neurodiversityfamilycentre.com/team-1/courtney-sedlak

📢 **We're Hiring!** 📢

The Neurodiversity Family Centre is looking for Registered Clinical Counsellors and Registered Social Workers to join our team and provide neurodiversity-affirming care to children aged 10 and under.

We're seeking Autism and/or ADH(D) specialists with both education and experience in working with neurodivergent children. The ideal candidate is:

✅ Knowledgeable about and has experience in working with Autistic & ADH(D) individuals
✅ Accommodating and flexible
✅ Passionate about providing Neurodiversity Affirming Care
✅ Wishes to work as a part of a group practice long term

If you're passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a dynamic team, we want to hear from you!

👉 **Learn more about the role here**: https://www.neurodiversityfamilycentre.com/about-8
✉️ **To apply**: Send your CV to [email protected] to start the pre-screening process.

Join us in creating a supportive environment for neurodivergent children and their families! 🌟

We are so excited to introduce to you our new practicum student Devin McCullough who will be offering sessions at a rate of $55 (including GST) per 50 minute individual session.

She/Her
M.Ed. (in progress), B.Ed., B.A.

In-person/Online Alternating Wednesdays:
4:00pm-7:00pm

Specializations
ADHD
Autism
Anxiety & Stress
Depression
LGBTQ2S+
Challenges at school

To learn more about Devin click here:
https://www.neurodiversityfamilycentre.com/team-1/devin-mccullough-

To book with Devin fill out our referral form here:
https://www.neurodiversityfamilycentre.com/contactus

To learn more about our services and rates click here:
https://www.neurodiversityfamilycentre.com/services

Hello parents!

We are so excited to share that we are moving in to OUR OWN new space with two dedicated offices for counselling children and a total of 5 offices! After 2.5 years we are finally a centre!

We are in the midst of furnishing these two spaces and would love any and all feedback about what kinds of things you think your kiddo would LOVE to see in a neurodiversity affirming child’s space!

We also plan to create a waiting room that is much more ND affirming then our last space allowed (it was a shared space).

Thank you in advanced for any ideas you have to offer! Feel free to include links to items!

🌟 Introducing Our New Course: The Basics of Neurodiversity 🌟

Unlock a deeper understanding of neurodiversity with our beginner-friendly online course, "The Basics of Neurodiversity: Through a Neuroaffirming Lens." Perfect for caregivers, support workers, employers, and educators, this on-demand, self-paced course will enlighten and empower you in just 1 hour!

✨ **Course Highlights:**
- What is Neurodiversity? Understand the significance and celebrate the variety of human neurological differences.
- Understanding Neurodivergence: Dive into the common aspects and meanings of being neurodivergent.
- Neurodiversity Affirming Practices: Learn the importance of affirming neurodiversity and creating inclusive environments.
- Types of Neurodivergence: Explore various types, including Autism and ADHD, and appreciate their unique strengths.
- Support Strategies: Gain practical strategies to support neurodivergent individuals at home, in schools, and at work.

💼 **Instructor:** Mary Klovance (BEd, MA, RCC, ADHD-CCSP, ADHD-CE)
🎓 **Level:** Beginners Course
🕒 **Duration:** 1 hour
💵 **Cost:** $99 (Including GST)

Join us and be a part of building a more inclusive and understanding community. Let's foster environments where everyone can thrive! 🌈

👉 **Sign up now and start your journey toward neurodiversity awareness and inclusion!** Link: https://www.neurodiversityfamilycentre.com/contact-8

🎨✨ "Being Autistic to me is like everyone else got instructions on how to be a person and I just didn’t." This powerful quote captures a common feeling among many neurodivergent individuals. 🧩💬

In a world tailored to neurotypical standards, neurodivergent folks often experience communication as a different landscape—one where the paths are less traveled and the signs less clear. 🌿🛤️ It's not that the way neurodivergent people communicate is wrong; it's beautifully unique, but often misunderstood because it diverges from the mainstream.

🌟 Let's shift the narrative! Instead of expecting everyone to follow the same communication playbook, why not expand our understanding and appreciate the diverse ways people connect and express themselves? 📚🌍

By embracing and valuing these differences, we can create a more inclusive and understanding world where no one feels like they're "doing it wrong" just because they're following their own directions. 🤝💖

Let's celebrate every way of being and communicating—it's how we all grow together! 🌱🎉

🌟 Discover the world through the eyes of ! 🌈✨ Lyric Rivera, the dynamic voice behind www.neurodivergentrebel.com, shares their journey as an autistic adult, delivering insights, tips, and a vibrant perspective on life that enriches the neurodiversity movement.

📘 Through engaging blog posts and compelling videos, Lyric advocates for embracing your authentic self and promotes a deeper understanding of neurodiversity. Whether you're neurodivergent, know someone who is, or simply interested in diverse experiences, this platform is bursting with inspiration and advocacy.

👀 Dive into 's world on Instagram and their website for enlightening and empowering content. It's more than just a resource; it's a celebration of being uniquely you!

🌟 Discover the world through the eyes of ! 🌈✨ Lyric Rivera, the dynamic voice behind www.neurodivergentrebel.com, shares their journey as an autistic adult, delivering insights, tips, and a vibrant perspective on life that enriches the neurodiversity movement.

📘 Through engaging blog posts and compelling videos, Lyric advocates for embracing your authentic self and promotes a deeper understanding of neurodiversity. Whether you're neurodivergent, know someone who is, or simply interested in diverse experiences, this platform is bursting with inspiration and advocacy.

👀 Dive into 's world on Instagram and their website for enlightening and empowering content. It's more than just a resource; it's a celebration of being uniquely you!

Join Lyric Rivera in celebrating the rich tapestry of neurodiverse minds! 🚀💖

📲

🎨✨ Discover a world where neurodiversity meets creativity at www.the-art-of-autism.com! This incredible platform showcases the talents of autistic artists and writers, providing them a space to express their unique perspectives through art, poetry, and more. 🖌️📝

By visiting The Art of Autism, you're not only immersing yourself in stunning artworks and inspiring stories, but you're also supporting a community that thrives on inclusivity and understanding. Whether you're looking for a dose of inspiration, to learn more about the autistic experience, or to support autistic creators, this site is a treasure trove of beauty and insight.

Why wait? Explore today and see the world through a wonderfully different lens! 💖🌍

In today's digital age, finding a balanced approach to screen time that respects neurodiversity and individual needs can be challenging. That's why we've crafted a workshop, "Screen Time” & The Neurodivergent Brain: Modern Day Mental Health Considerations" designed with the understanding that not all screen time is created equal, and its impact can vary widely among neurodiverse individuals.

This workshop isn't about labeling screen time as inherently bad; instead, it's about understanding and harnessing it to support positive development, learning, and well-being. Through a neurodiversity-affirming lens, we explore strategies that respect individual differences, recognizing the unique ways in which digital media can serve as a tool for engagement, creativity, and connection.

We invite educators, therapists, and anyone working with youth to share this opportunity with families seeking a balanced, informed approach to screen time. Our goal is to empower participants with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions that honor the neurodiversity of each family member.

Join us in creating an environment where digital media is a part of our lives in a way that's healthy, balanced, and positive. For more details on this enriching workshop, please visit our website. Together, we can navigate the digital landscape in a way that celebrates and supports the neurodiverse community.

Course Format: On-Demand, Start online now and finish at your own pace!

LINK: https://www.neurodiversityfamilycentre.com/challenge-page/screentime

Cost: $75 Per Family (Including GST)

"The unexpected are accidents and incidents that happen in daily life. People are late due to car accidents on the road. There is no way to plan for an unexpected vehicle accident.

Other than expected are deliberate choices that go against what is planned or expected. For example, someone being late because they decided to stop for a coffee. It is especially bad when someone who is late due to poor decisions is the one who degrades others for being late for any reason."

- Joe Klovance, 60, AuADHDer reflecting on the assumption that Autistics are "inflexible". Instead, he describes here that he can be flexible when the unexpected occurs, but when the other-than expected occurs, that is when it's hard to handle and big emotions start flooding in.

🌟 Spotlight Feature: 🌿✨

In the spirit of fostering understanding and acceptance, today we're shining a light on an incredible ally and resource in the neurodiversity community: . 🎉

Based on the crossroads of empathy, knowledge, and creativity, is provides an amazing platform that offers a wealth of resources, insights, and support for neurodiverse individuals and their allies. From educational content and personal stories to empowering artwork and advocacy, she's a beacon of positivity and understanding in the digital space. 📚🎨

Her content not only educates but also uplifts, reminding us of the strength found in diversity and the importance of seeing the world through various lenses. 🌈

Whether you're seeking resources to better understand autism, looking for ways to support the community, or simply want to follow a page that fills your feed with educational resources and insightful content, is your go-to.

Let's support and celebrate the work she's doing to make the world a more inclusive place. Follow on Instagram and Facebook for your daily dose of neurodiversity affirming content. 🌍❤️

🌈✨ It's Autism Acceptance Month! 🎉✨🌈

Here at the Neurodiversity Family Centre, we're all about celebrating the diverse tapestry of human minds, and this month, we're turning the spotlight on Autistic voices. 🗣️💬

Our journey this month is one of learning, sharing, and growing together. We're here to amplify the experiences, insights, and creativity of Autistic individuals, because understanding comes from listening to the real experts—those who live the experience every day.

📚🎨 From enlightening articles to personal shares, we're curating a collection of resources created by Autistic creators. Our goal? To dive deep into the Autistic experience, challenge misconceptions, and celebrate the strengths and unique perspectives that autism brings to our community.

So, get ready to explore, learn, and connect. Stay tuned for a month filled with stories, tips, and resources that shine a light on the vibrant world of autism. Let's embrace the beauty of neurodiversity together. ❤️🧩

🌟✨ Identifying Strengths & Skills 🌈🌟

At The NDFC, we're committed to guiding our clients towards their personal aspirations with a nurturing touch. 🚀 At the heart of our approach is a commitment to identifying strategies and skills that not only align with our clients' goals but also build on their inherent strengths. 🛠️💪

Our practice is deeply rooted in a client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed framework, ensuring that every step we take is tailored to the unique paths of those we support. 🌱

We believe in the power of listening—truly listening. When our clients express that something isn't working for them, we're here to adapt and explore alternative approaches that resonate more closely with their needs. 🎧➡️💡

Our practitioners are not just professionals; they're passionate individuals with a rich tapestry of knowledge and personal experiences, making our community a wellspring of diverse and empathetic support. 🌈🤲

Finding the right counsellor is key to a successful therapeutic journey. That’s why we encourage you to delve into our counsellor profiles to discover the perfect match for you. 🕵️‍♀️❤️ We understand that therapy is most effective when the fit feels right, ensuring a pathway to achieving your desired outcomes. 🌻

Together, let’s navigate your journey to fulfillment with compassion and understanding. Your path to personal growth starts here. 🌈✨

🌟 Together, We Break Barriers and Build Bridges! 🌈✨

At The Neurodiversity Family Centre, we believe in a collaborative approach to enhancing the quality of life for our clients. We understand that every journey is unique, and together, we work to identify and remove environmental barriers that stand in the way of our clients' well-being. 🚧➡️🌿

Whether it’s adapting environments to better suit our clients' needs and strengths, or providing psychoeducation to their circles to foster deeper understanding and support, we're here every step of the way. 🏡💡

But that’s not all! We empower our clients to advocate for themselves, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met, paving the path to success on their own terms. 🗣️👂

Your journey, your strength, our support. Let’s work together to create environments where you can thrive. 💖🌍

At The Neurodiversity Family Centre our practitioners are passionate about working alongside our clients and their support networks to uncover and amplify the unique strengths each person brings to the table. 🌈👥

Instead of zeroing in on deficits, we focus on the power of strengths! 🌟 We believe in the beauty of diversity and the potential that lies within each individual. By identifying and building on these strengths, we help our clients navigate through barriers, paving the way towards enhanced personal well-being and fulfillment. 🛤️💪

Our approach is all about collaboration, empathy, and empowerment. We’re here to support you in using your distinct talents to flourish in every aspect of life. 🌿💖

Let’s celebrate each person’s unique journey and work together to create a world where everyone’s strengths are recognized and nurtured. 🎉🌍



Join us in this empowering journey. Your strengths are your superpowers! ✨🦸‍♂️🦸‍♀️

✨ Empowering Clients to Discover Fulfilling Life Paths!

Our approach is simple yet profound: identifying what matters most to the client. Together, we identify personal goals by delving into the parts of their life they wish to transform and craft a roadmap to success alongside them based on their strengths, values and beliefs. 🗺️❤️ Therapy isn't done TO our clients, it's done WITH our clients. We see our clients as the drives and our practitioners as the backseat drivers, we may have some thoughts and ideas on where we could go but the client gets to choose where they want to go and exactly how they feel comfortable getting there.

This journey is more than goal-setting; it's about aligning life with what truly resonates at the core of our client. From career aspirations to personal relationships or self-esteem, we stand by our clients, cheering them on every step of the way. 🌈🚀

🌱 Understanding Ableism 🌱

Ableism is the discrimination or prejudice against individuals with disabilities, favoring non-disabled individuals.
But what about internalized ableism?
It’s when individuals with disabilities unconsciously adopt these negative beliefs about themselves and see themselves as "less then", "bad", or "wrong" and feel that they need to change in order to "fit in".

At the Neurodiversity Family Centre, we guide our clients through the process of identifying internalized ableism. By recognizing these ingrained biases, we foster a journey towards self-acceptance and empowerment. There is no "right" or "wrong" way to be, even though most neurodivergent folk have been told this. Ableism tells us that "sitting quietly" means you're listening -- but my ADHD will tell you that actually means I'm likely daydreaming and not listening at all!
Direct Eye contact-- Ableism tells us we must maintain eye contact to show we are listening and/or engaged, however, for me, eye contact can make it too over stimulating because I'm not only processing my own thoughts/feelings but also processing the other person's at the same time, and that's A LOT!

Why is it important?
Because it is the first step in dismantling barriers to self-worth and embracing one’s abilities and identity fully. It can help clients to stop trying to "fit in the box" and instead embrace that they may do things "differently" but it works and there is nothing wrong with that!

"

🌟 Learn more about how we provide Neuro Affirming Care! 🌈

At The Neurodiversity Family Centre, we're excited to peel back the layers and show you the unique ways we support and celebrate neurodiversity. 🧠💫

Over the next week we will be sharing the different ways in which we aim to provide neuro affirming support. Say goodbye to one-size-fits-all approaches! 🚫 Our care is as unique as you are, embracing a person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed methodology to increase client's quality of life and achieve personal goals. 🌱

Our team of independent contractors brings a rich tapestry of approaches, education backgrounds, and life experiences, ensuring care that's truly as unique as you are. 🤝

Curious about how this translates into their practice? Want to dive deeper into the personal styles of our dedicated practitioners? 🕵️‍♂️ Feel free to reach out directly with your questions, or book a complimentary 15-minute consult with those offering it, to discover how we can support your journey.

Stay tuned as we share more insights and stories from our centre, designed to empower and inspire. 🌺

Your journey to self-empowerment starts here. Let's explore it together! 🌍✨

🌟 Affordable Counselling Sessions with Hannah Steed! 🌟

Looking for quality counselling that won't break the bank? Meet our practicum student counsellor, Hannah Steed, who's here to support you and your loved ones.

🔹 Hannah specializes in working with children, youth (ages 5-17), and families. She's passionate about helping clients navigate life's challenges.

🔹 No waitlist! Enjoy in-person sessions every second Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Take a step towards mental well-being on your schedule.

🔹 Rates that won't stress your wallet:
- Individual Sessions (50 minutes): $55 (Including GST)
- 2+ People Sessions (50 minutes): $75 (Including GST)

Don't miss out on this opportunity for affordable counselling. Reach out to Hannah today and start your journey towards a happier, healthier you! 💙

We live in a world of stairs where there should be ramps, because ramps work for everyone.

If your child was born without the ability to walk, you wouldn't say:
"Life is hard, I want to prepare them for the real world, so they will just have to figure out how to get up the stairs because the world is full of them."

Instead we would say:
"We should build more ramps so my child has the ability to enter the same buildings and have the same opportunities as those who can walk!"

Yet, when it comes to a child who is Neurodivergent I have heard things like:
"Sure it's difficult for them to focus, but the world is full of noise so they are just going to have to try harder" or "Why do we have to make things easier for them? They are just going to have to figure out how to adapt because the world is a tough place."

So why the different response?

Let's make one thing clear: We are asking for equitability, not "the easy road out".

The reality is, accomodations for ND folk support ALL folk not just those with a diagnosis. EVERYONE could use a little quiet space, alternative seating, movement breaks, etc. The ND community is not asking for MORE just to serve their own needs, they are asking for the world to be more accepting of all ways of being so that all people with or without a diagnosis, can find success.

Again, let me be clear:

We are asking for equitability because there should be more ramps where there are stairs.